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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Lincoln Park's best

Italian food and date spots

An Italian dinner that feels intimate enough for a date without the forced formality of white tablecloths.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated April 2026
01
Strapoli Pizzeria image 1
Strapoli Pizzeria image 2
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Pizza restaurant

Small pizza spot with open kitchen and outdoor patio offers a cozy, family-run vibe and BYOB option. Music sets a lively tone while seating stays intimate with mostly two-person tables. Pizza features authentic Italian style with thin crust and balanced toppings.

Pistachio pesto stands out with its fresh and flavorful profile, shining on pizzas and sandwiches alike. Pizzas feature very fresh ingredients and great sauces, including combinations like pesto, pepperoni, and hot honey.

Offers a low key vibe suited for date nights with options to build your own pizza. Garlic bread stands out as a popular choice to share.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be genuinely very good."

"The Italian food's dough is light, thin, and crispy."

"The pizza here is incredible and super light."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB with a small corkage fee.

2

Expect a 10-20 minute wait for dine-in orders.

3

The weekday $10 pizza deal is available for a limited time.

02
Bacino's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Neighborhood pizza spot with an old school charm and quiet, welcoming atmosphere. Seating is comfortable and the open-air vibe adds a fun touch. Known for authentic deep-dish pizza with a thick, crispy crust and fantastic tomato sauce.

Bruschetta stands out with exceptional flavor. Handmade ravioli and lasagna also deliver strong Italian classics. Various pizzas and pasta dishes like penne al forno and spaghetti with meatballs round out the menu.

Couples often visit for a relaxed meal together. The setting suits quiet dinners and intimate conversations.

People are saying

"I thought this deep dish was the best I had ever eaten."

"The Italian food here, especially the bruschetta, is divine."

"This is the best deep dish pizza I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is tricky; try to park a block away and walk.

2

The menu has a note that no modifications are allowed on specialty pizzas.

3

Prices are relatively reasonable for deep-dish pizza.

03
Butcher and the Bear image 1

Steakhouse offers a dark intimate atmosphere with sophisticated, elegant vibe and beautiful decor. Live singer performances add to the swanky bar area ambiance. High-quality steaks and expertly crafted cocktails define the experience.

Mezze rigatoni pasta stands out with rich flavors, paired well with a fresh butternut squash salad. The Wagyu cheek pasta offers a tender, deeply cooked taste that feels crafted with care.

Offers a romantic atmosphere ideal for celebrating special occasions like anniversaries. Serves excellent dinner options that make date nights memorable and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly and full of flavor."

"The food at these Date Spots is outstanding and full of flavor."

"The Italian food here is cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for a table on Saturday nights.

2

Happy Hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers; don't miss it.

3

The 'Girl Dinner' special on Sundays includes two martinis and caviar fries for $29.

04
Trattoria Gianni image 1
Italian restaurant

Long, narrow space with open brick walls and a cozy, old-school Italian vibe creates an intimate atmosphere. Back patio garden offers a quiet, lovely setting for dining, while round tables accommodate larger groups. Staff includes Italian owners and waiters, enhancing the authentic feel.

Pasta dishes shine with pillowy gnocchi and fresh Bolognese. Appetizers like crunchy arrancini and perfectly fried calamari stand out, while tiramisu finishes the meal on a sweet note.

Suitable for both intimate date nights and larger groups, the spot offers a relaxed setting for drinks and shared starters like arrancini and calamari. It works well for celebrations and casual evenings out.

People are saying

"I loved the cozy, old-school Italian vibe here."

"The outdoor seating here is gorgeous and quiet."

"The food here is delicious, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a 20-30 minute wait during peak dinner hours.

3

Valet parking is available for $10, with street parking options nearby.

05
Sweet&Salt Cafe Bakery llc image 1

Bright, modern bakery space offers cozy atmosphere with fresh flowers and a quiet, chill vibe. Frequented by locals seeking a neighborhood spot to relax or catch up, it features homemade pastries that are flaky and flavorful.

Lasagna stands out with its tasty flavor and consistent deliciousness. Other Italian options like pulled pork and salmon croissant complement the menu but lasagna remains the highlight.

Offers quality meals at a reasonable price, making it suitable for lunch dates. Serves breakfast and coffee options alongside sweet treats for casual coffee dates or indulgent moments.

People are saying

"The pastries here are fresh and tasty."

"The Italian food, especially the lasagna, was so tasty."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, welcoming atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a busy atmosphere on weekends.

2

The cafe offers a combo deal of coffee and quiche for $11.99.

3

Parking is limited; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

06
Soul Prime image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with modern contemporary design and soulful R&B music creates an intimate, joyful vibe. Music plays continuously, mixing gospel and 90s throwbacks, setting a family block party atmosphere. Spacious bar and warm hospitality add to the welcoming energy.

Chicken Alfredo stands out with rich, creamy sauce and bold Cajun flavors. The vegan Spaghetti offers a tasty alternative, and Fried Pork Chops add a hearty touch to the menu.

Special occasions get thoughtful attention with attentive service and a lovely atmosphere. Meals support memorable moments for couples celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or date nights.

People are saying

"The fried chicken and mac and cheese are soul-warming American food."

"The lemonade here is so flavorful and perfectly balanced."

"The Italian food here is fantastic and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for parties of three or more on weekends.

2

Happy Hour runs from Tuesday to Friday, 3-6 p.m., with $3-$9 food options.

3

The kitchen closes at 9:30 p.m., so arrive early for dinner.

07
Esmรฉ image 1
Restaurant

Dining space resembles an art gallery with rotating exhibits integrated into plating and decor. Atmosphere stays comfortable and elegant, avoiding fine dining pretension while feeling welcoming and calm. Guests experience creative presentations alongside carefully crafted cocktails and dishes.

Unique presentation stands out with tiramisu featuring a small edible drawing of the restaurant. Complimentary glass of champagne and free pasta come as thanks for waiting.

Intimate settings suit celebrations like anniversaries and birthdays. Staff show considerate attention to special occasions, enhancing the experience for couples.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are unique, artfully presented, and inspired by the gallery."

"The food here is artistic, interesting, and delicious for Date Spots."

"I loved their Italian Food, especially the flaming hot Cheeto."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy dining hours.

2

The tasting menu changes every 12 weeks, inspired by a local artist.

3

Expect to pay around $80 per person during Chicago Restaurant Week.

08
Yaya Mas Greek Kuzina image 1
Greek restaurant

Small, colorful space with vibrant blue accents and a clean, cozy atmosphere evokes a Greek village feel. DJ mixes Greek and EDM music, creating a lively, friendly vibe. Indoor dining resembles a trendy Greek coffee shop, while outdoor seating offers a relaxed setting.

Pasta dishes show flavorful noodles and include options like seafood pasta and cheese rigatoni. Some baked pasta comes in plastic containers and tastes microwaved, lacking flavor on its own.

A local hangout with a casual vibe suits date nights well. Drinks include fruit options like peach, though orders can mix up occasionally.

People are saying

"I thought the gyro meat was seasoned to perfection."

"I'd never tasted pasta like this before; it was amazing."

"These date spots feel like eating in Athens."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open from 7 AM to 5 AM, perfect for late-night bites.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Desserts are affordable, with sharable options priced at $6.

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Lincoln Park, Chicago

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